California Reinstates Mandatory Mask Policy in Select Settings
Mask mandates have been reinstated in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities across California in an effort to limit the spread of RSV, the flu, and COVID-19. The mandate will last until the end of flu season in March, requiring everyone entering these facilities to wear a mask. Some counties, such as Marin and Santa Clara, require masks for all individuals entering medical facilities, while others like Alameda, San Mateo, Contra Costa, and Sonoma counties only require health care workers to mask up in patient care areas. Health officials are also encouraging vaccination against COVID-19, flu, and RSV, and reminding people to check the expiration dates of their rapid COVID tests.